Belcher Hill, Longhorn, and Maverick Trail Loop

The loop is located in White Ranch Park near Golden, Colorado. Parking is available at the park's trailheads. It's advisable to check the White Ranch Park website for specific parking lot locations and any current access information.

White Ranch Park is part of the Jefferson County Open Space system. Generally, there are no entrance fees for the park itself. However, it's always a good idea to check the official Jefferson County Open Space website for any updated regulations or permit requirements before your visit.

No, this loop is generally considered difficult and is best suited for intermediate to advanced mountain bikers. It features significant elevation gain, technical descents, and varied challenging terrain, including a very rocky and steep climb up Belcher Hill.

The trail can be ridden in most seasons, but spring and fall often offer the most pleasant conditions. During summer afternoons, the exposed sections can get very hot, so an early morning or late afternoon ride is recommended. Winter riding is possible, but trail conditions can vary with snow and ice.

Yes, White Ranch Park is generally dog-friendly. However, dogs must be kept on a leash at all times. Please remember to pack out all pet waste to help maintain the trail's natural beauty.

You'll encounter a diverse range of surfaces, including packed red rock, loose over hardpack, loose rock, gravel, and dirt with roots. The initial Belcher Hill climb is particularly rocky and steep, while the Longhorn Trail features technical sections with drops, roots, and switchbacks. The Maverick Trail offers a faster, flowing descent with rock features.

Riders are treated to expansive views of the Colorado mountainous landscape, including dramatic vistas down toward the plains from the Maverick Trail. You'll also see forested hillsides, rocky outcrops, and glimpses of a historic barn along the Longhorn Trail, with views of Golden's North and South Table Mountains.

Yes, it is often recommended to ride the technical sections clockwise. A significant portion of the Longhorn Trail (between Shorthorn and Whippletree) is designated as single-direction (west to east/downhill) and mountain bike-only, making it an aggressive downhill track.

Yes, the route also passes through sections of the Belcher Hill Trail, Longhorn, Whippletree Trail, and Mustang Trail, offering connections to other parts of the White Ranch Park trail system.

Absolutely! One of the key features is the Technical Descent, particularly on the Longhorn Trail, which is known for its challenging and aggressive downhill sections. The Maverick Trail also offers a fast and flowing descent after the climb.

For mountain bikers, this challenging 13.5-mile loop typically takes around 2 hours and 35 minutes to complete, depending on your fitness level and how often you stop to enjoy the views or navigate technical sections.

While there are no direct amenities on the trail itself, the loop is located near Golden, Colorado, which offers various options for cafes, restaurants, and other services where you can refuel before or after your ride.